A BELEAGUERED library will continue its involvement in a summer holiday scheme for children despite the discovery of drug paraphernalia.

Staff at Rhyl Library have been forced to close the facilities as a deterrent to drugs users who have been using the site inappropriately in addition to recurring flytipping incidents.

The closure of the toilets has required alternative provisions for children between four and 11 taking part in the Denbighshire wide Summer Reading Challenge.

A spokesman for Denbighshire County Council said: “We have been advised to temporarily close the toilets at Rhyl Library whilst looking into the options for deterring inappropriate use.

“On more than one occasion recently, our staff have had to clean up and remove drug paraphernalia left in the toilets, which pose a health risk to other users.

“The toilets have been closed for four weeks following a peak in incidents and therefore a concern for the safety of the public and staff.

“We have arrangements in place for children to access another toilet if they need.”

In response, the council are also working with The NHS Harm Reduction and North Wales Police on short term security measures as well as exploring longer term options..

The spokesperson added: “We apologise that the toilets are not currently available for use, and also wish to remind Radar key holders that they can still use the accessible toilet.”

In addition to drug use at the site, the library has also been plagued with flytipping at one of the public bins outside the building.

A Rhyl resident, who wishes to remain anonymous said: “There has been a fly tipping problem now for a good few months outside Rhyl Libary. It happens on average three to four times a week.

“It’s not just general rubbish being dumped. There is also animal poo in with it like cat litter and what appears to be puppy training pads covered in animal waste.

“Also there has been some female waste which I wish not to mention. Even though there are signs warning of the risk of being caught it is still happening. And the smell is disgusting. “

The spokesperson responded: “We are aware of the rubbish left outside Rhyl Library, we are investigating this and our street scene officers will clearing up any mess.

“As with all flytipping, any evidence found in the rubbish will be used to prosecute the offender.”

“We are keen to work with the community to ensure this doesn’t happen again and would advise those responsible to use any of Denbighshire’s recycling centres to dispose of their rubbish in the future or contact the council to remove larger items.”